Description
Hennepin County Library will open two new, larger libraries without the ability to increase FTE. We are developing a pilot plan to see if a video service can address the need to provide reference service in a busy library as part of an overall staffing strategy.
A coordinated video reference service may be a tool that can help libraries continue to provide core services with reduced in-building staff. The purpose of a video-based reference service is to supplement reference staffing in buildings. In a small library, video reference could be used in the absence of on-site reference staff; in a larger library it may be used to provide access to reference service while in-library reference staff are engaged in other service functions - programming, outreach, class visits, etc.
Web Services staff at Hennepin County Library began investigating the technical aspects of providing video reference service in early 2009, with an eye toward determining if there were any technical issues that would prohibit the introduction of a service. The library has no additional funds that can be spent on the purchase of equipment or software; work done to date is based on freely available software and low cost equipment.
This presentation will give an up close look at the process of developing this new service at Hennepin County Library. We'll touch on equipment needs, service issues and staffing models. We may not have a lot of answers, but we'll be able to share out experiences with interested parties.
Start Date
17-3-2010 10:10 AM
videoref.ppt
Video Reference: A Pre-Test and Pilot Project
Hennepin County Library will open two new, larger libraries without the ability to increase FTE. We are developing a pilot plan to see if a video service can address the need to provide reference service in a busy library as part of an overall staffing strategy.
A coordinated video reference service may be a tool that can help libraries continue to provide core services with reduced in-building staff. The purpose of a video-based reference service is to supplement reference staffing in buildings. In a small library, video reference could be used in the absence of on-site reference staff; in a larger library it may be used to provide access to reference service while in-library reference staff are engaged in other service functions - programming, outreach, class visits, etc.
Web Services staff at Hennepin County Library began investigating the technical aspects of providing video reference service in early 2009, with an eye toward determining if there were any technical issues that would prohibit the introduction of a service. The library has no additional funds that can be spent on the purchase of equipment or software; work done to date is based on freely available software and low cost equipment.
This presentation will give an up close look at the process of developing this new service at Hennepin County Library. We'll touch on equipment needs, service issues and staffing models. We may not have a lot of answers, but we'll be able to share out experiences with interested parties.